Black Friday is no longer a single day; it’s a month-long event. Retailers are dropping sales throughout November and into early December, making the traditional rush to brick-and-mortar stores a relic of the past. The savings potential online during Black Friday and Cyber Week is unprecedented, but navigating the sheer volume of deals can be overwhelming. This guide provides the professional inside scoop to maximize your holiday shopping, from tracking store hours to understanding price-matching policies.
When Do the Sales Start?
The traditional Black Friday falls on November 28th, 2025, but most retailers launch sales weeks in advance. Here’s a breakdown of key dates:
- Amazon: Sales begin November 20th, running through December 1st.
- Best Buy: In-store and online deals are active from November 20th to November 29th.
- Walmart: Online sales start November 25th, with in-store availability from November 28th to November 30th. Cyber Monday deals continue online on December 1st.
- Target: Sales begin November 23rd and extend through November 29th. Stores will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, with additional deals dropping November 27th–29th.
Store Hours: Plan Ahead
Major retailers open early on Black Friday. Expect these hours:
- Best Buy: Opens at 6 a.m. on Black Friday (November 28th), closing at 10 p.m. Weekend hours extend to 9 p.m. or 10 p.m.
- Walmart: Opens at 6 a.m. on Black Friday, closing at 11 p.m., consistent with regular business hours.
- Target: Opens at 6 a.m. on Black Friday, typically closing around 11 p.m. Weekend hours vary by location.
These times apply to Cyber Weekend as well. Always double-check your local store’s specific schedule.
Price Matching: What to Expect?
Price matching is becoming increasingly rare. Target still offers a policy where they will match their own prices if they drop after your purchase (through December 24th). Best Buy matches prices year-round, but excludes Black Friday week. Amazon and Walmart do not offer price-matching.
How to Shop Smart: A Strategic Approach
The key to Black Friday success is preparation. Follow these steps:
- Make a List: Avoid impulse buys by creating a prioritized shopping list.
- Check Ad Scans: Preview deals from major retailers like Amazon, Walmart, Target, Lowe’s, and Home Depot.
- Set a Budget: Prevent overspending by establishing a clear spending limit.
- Use Wishlists: Amazon wishlists can alert you to price drops.
- Download Retailer Apps: Some retailers offer exclusive app-only deals.
- Track Prices: Tools like camelcamelcamel reveal price history, ensuring you’re getting a genuine discount.
Top Deals to Watch For
Expect substantial savings on these categories:
- Tech: TVs (QLED, OLED), laptops (Apple MacBooks), headphones (Apple AirPods, Sony, Bose).
- Home & Kitchen: Robot vacuums (Dyson, Shark), kitchen appliances, large appliances.
- Gaming: Video games, gaming laptops, consoles (Nintendo Switch, PS5).
- Outdoor & Fitness: Camping gear, fitness trackers (Oura, Fitbit).
Black Friday vs. Cyber Monday: Which is Better?
The lines between Black Friday and Cyber Monday are blurring. While some deals persist through both days, the best TV deals often sell out by Cyber Monday. Laptop deals, however, may see further discounts on Cyber Monday. If you find a deal you like, grab it—don’t risk it disappearing.
In conclusion: Black Friday 2025 will be a prolonged shopping event, not a single-day frenzy. Careful planning, price tracking, and strategic timing are essential to secure the best deals. Stay informed, stay organized, and prepare to shop.
